Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Your new favorite party food! These flaky Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are so easy to make with puff pastry. Perfect for gatherings, they offer a creamy, savory flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s a game night or a holiday party, these bite-sized treats will be the star of the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The combination of spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory taste that delights guests.
- Versatile Serving Options – Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these pinwheels fit any occasion from casual get-togethers to fancy parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare them in advance and bake just before serving, making hosting easier.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with common pantry staples, these pinwheels are easy on your wallet and your time.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these delicious pinwheels, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Knife for slicing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy base for baking the pinwheels evenly.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowl – Essential for combining all your ingredients smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Filling
- 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (10 oz) thaw it and squeeze the life out of it
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz) leave it out so it’s nice and soft
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- pinch red pepper flakes if you want a little heat
For the Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed but still cold
- 1 egg for brushing
How to Make Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Grab a bowl and throw in:
1. Cream cheese
2. Parmesan
3. Mayo
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Black pepper
Now add the drained spinach. Squeeze it until no water comes out at all, then mix everything thoroughly until it looks even.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Flour your counter and roll out the puff pastry:
– Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry but leave one long side empty to seal later.
– Roll it up tightly like a jelly roll.
Step 3: Chill Before Baking
Wrap the log in plastic wrap:
– Place it in the fridge for half an hour to firm up.
– Preheat your oven to 400°F while you wait.
Step 4: Slice and Bake
Take the log out of the fridge:
– Slice it into half-inch rounds.
– Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Beat the egg with a splash of water and brush it on top of each round.
– Bake for 15–20 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels, perfect for any gathering!
How to Serve Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are a delicious and versatile appetizer perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dish.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Creamy Ranch: A classic ranch dressing complements the savory flavors of the pinwheels.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Add a kick to your bites with this zesty dipping sauce.
- Garlic Aioli: This rich, garlicky dip enhances the creamy texture of the pinwheels.
Serve on a Platter
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Place the pinwheels on a platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil for added color and freshness.
- Accompanied by Veggies: Add a side of fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.
Create a Themed Charcuterie Board
- Cheese Selection: Include various cheeses like aged cheddar, brie, and gouda for a delightful pairing.
- Cured Meats: Incorporate sliced salami or prosciutto to enhance the flavors and textures on your board.
How to Perfect Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Getting these Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels just right will impress your guests. Here are some tips to ensure perfection.
- Use Thawed Spinach: Make sure to fully thaw and squeeze out excess water from the spinach for the best texture.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Letting cream cheese sit at room temperature ensures it mixes well with other ingredients.
- Roll Tightly: When rolling the puff pastry, keep it tight to maintain shape during baking.
- Chill Before Slicing: Chilling the log helps firm it up, making slicing easier and cleaner.
- Brush Egg Wash Generously: An egg wash gives your pinwheels that beautiful golden color when baked.
- Adjust Baking Time as Needed: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens may vary so adjust time accordingly.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
These Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pinwheels.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an earthy flavor that complements your appetizers.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a refreshing bite.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers crunch and freshness.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits adds sweetness and visual appeal to your spread.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a hearty option that pairs nicely with dips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Ignoring the moisture: Failing to squeeze out excess water from the spinach can lead to soggy pinwheels. Always ensure you remove as much moisture as possible before mixing it with other ingredients.
- Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and won’t blend smoothly with other ingredients. Always let it sit at room temperature until soft for a creamy filling.
- Not rolling tightly: If you roll the puff pastry too loosely, the pinwheels may unravel while baking. Roll them tightly, like a jelly roll, for better structure.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the rolled log helps it firm up, making slicing easier and ensuring they hold their shape while baking. Don’t skip this important step!
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many pinwheels on one baking sheet can prevent them from puffing properly. Give them space to expand by using multiple sheets if necessary.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 2 months.
- Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
Reheating Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual pinwheels for about 30-45 seconds, but they won’t be crispy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels:
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh spinach can be used; just sauté it first and ensure it’s well-drained before mixing.
How do I customize my pinwheel filling?
Feel free to add ingredients like artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses for varied flavors.
Are these pinwheels vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! The recipe contains no meat, making it a perfect vegetarian appetizer.
How long does it take to prepare these pinwheels?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, followed by baking time of 20 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them beforehand.
Final Thoughts
These Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize the fillings according to your taste preferences, making them an excellent choice for parties or family gatherings. Try out this recipe and impress your guests with a delightful appetizer!
Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 pinwheels 1x
Description
Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are the perfect party appetizer that combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy spinach filling, creating a delightful bite-sized treat. These savory pinwheels are easy to prepare and are sure to be a hit at any gathering, from game nights to elegant celebrations. With just a handful of ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll have an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy hosts.
Ingredients
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the drained spinach to the mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread the spinach filling evenly over the pastry, leaving one edge bare for sealing.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the chilled log into half-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush each round with an egg wash before baking for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel (28g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
